Choosing the right off-campus apartment near ASU in Tempe can feel overwhelming. With factors like location, cost, amenities and lease terms to weigh, it’s easy to feel lost in options. To simplify your search, here’s a guide to the important questions that will help you find the best off-campus apartment to enhance your student experience.
Read Next: 5 Reasons to Sign an Individual Lease as an ASU Student
At Rambler Tempe, we understand how hard it can be to evaluate your options and know what information to consider. To help you along in your student housing search, we made this list of essential questions to ask when touring an off-campus apartment.
What to Ask Before Signing a Lease at an Off-Campus Student Apartment at ASU
1. What specific lease terms should I know about?
Lease agreements can be long and packed with legal terms, so it’s helpful to ask for specific details during your tour. Key questions might include:
- What are the move-in and move-out dates?
- What is the policy regarding subletting?
- Are there limitations on installing fixtures like shelves or hanging photos?
- Are there any additional expenses?
- What is the policy for late fees?
- Is on-site parking available?
Read Next: How to Sign a Lease: A Step-by-Step Guide for ASU Students
2. What does my monthly rent include?
It’s important to understand what’s covered in your rent to budget for any extra costs. Consider the following items:
- Utilities: Typically billed separately but sometimes included.
- Water: Often incorporated into the monthly fee, but occasionally charged as an extra.
- Wi-Fi: Many student residences include Wi-Fi expenses in their monthly rates; verify whether it’s included or incurs an additional charge.
- Cable: Occasionally bundled in, but not always.
- Trash: Trash removal is commonly covered in student apartment rentals, though it might entail an extra fee.
3. How much do utilities cost?
Whether utilities are included or separate can greatly impact your monthly budget.
Ask about the types of utilities covered by the rental agreement and those that are not. Additionally, ask what the average monthly utility cost is for a typical resident to gain a clearer picture of the total monthly expenditure. If specific estimates are not available, you can also contact local utility providers to get a general idea of what to expect.
Read Next: How to Find the Perfect Student Apartment in Tempe, Arizona
4. What is the pet policy?
If you’re planning to bring a pet, it’s essential to understand the property’s pet policy. Start by asking if pets are allowed, and if so, confirm any associated fees, size or breed restrictions and specific rules.
Often, there is a non-refundable pet deposit, a monthly pet rent or both. Knowing these details upfront will help you avoid surprises and ensure your pet is welcome.
5. How is subleasing managed?
If you’re planning an extended time away from your apartment — for study abroad, an out-of-town internship or summer break — and might want to sublease to another student, it’s essential to understand the subleasing policy. Check your lease for specific terms, but also ask the landlord for clear guidelines.
Some properties require prior permission or have specific restrictions on subleasing. Unauthorized subleasing or not following lease terms could lead to potential penalties, so it’s best to get all the details upfront.
6. Is renter’s insurance required?
Renter’s insurance can protect you from unexpected events like fires, floods and theft, and some policies even cover injuries that happen within your apartment. However, requirements for renter’s insurance vary between properties.
Be sure to ask if it’s mandatory at your chosen complex. Some properties require all tenants to have their own renter’s insurance, while others might offer a basic policy for a small fee. Knowing these details will help you plan accordingly and ensure you’re fully covered.
Read Next: Student Guide to Renter’s Insurance
7. How do I pay rent?
To stay on top of payments and avoid late fees, it’s important to understand the rent payment process. Ask about the rent due date and available payment methods. Many complexes offer options like auto-pay, online manual payments, or paying by check.
If you’re prone to forgetting deadlines, auto-pay can be a lifesaver, ensuring your rent is paid on time without hassle. Whatever option you choose, knowing the payment procedures will help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary fees.
8. What are the repercussions if I need to terminate my lease early?
8. What are the repercussions if I need to terminate my lease early?Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes ending a lease early becomes necessary. To avoid surprises, ask about the process and potential costs involved if you need to break your lease.
Many properties charge substantial fees for early termination, and understanding these penalties can help you weigh your options. If you’re unsure about a full-year commitment, it’s especially important to be clear on these terms before signing.
9. How are maintenance issues addressed?
Timely maintenance is crucial to a comfortable and stress-free living experience. Be sure to ask about how maintenance requests are managed, including the typical response time for repairs and the availability of emergency services.
Understanding the process and how quickly issues are usually resolved will give you peace of mind in case any problems arise during your stay.
10. What security measures are in place?
Safety is essential when choosing a new home. During your tour, inquire about the property’s security measures, such as the presence of a buzzer system, key fob access and 24/7 security staff or surveillance. If there’s a parking garage, ask about protocols for safe access from the garage to the building.
For your individual unit, check if there are deadbolts on the front door and locks on bedroom doors if you’re in a shared apartment. Knowing these details will help you feel secure and at ease in your new residence.
11. How frequently does rent typically increase, and by what percentage?
While your lease may not always specify future rent adjustments, rental rates can rise with each annual renewal. If you’re considering staying long-term, ask about the typical frequency and percentage of rent increases. Knowing this can help you plan for future expenses and ensure your apartment remains within budget if you decide to renew.
12. Is parking available, and what are the costs?
Parking can be a premium in busy areas like Tempe, so it’s important to ask about on-site parking options and associated fees. Many student apartments offer parking garages, often with limited spaces and on a first-come, first-served basis. To plan your budget accurately, inquire about the monthly cost of a parking pass and confirm availability before signing.
Read Next: Pros and Cons of Bringing a Car to Campus at ASU
13. Do you offer roommate matching services?
A compatible roommate can make all the difference in your living experience. Many student apartments offer roommate matching services based on a questionnaire to help pair residents with similar preferences. If you’re interested in this option, ask if the complex provides a matching service and how the process works to find the right fit for you.
Read Next: Roommate Matching at Rambler Tempe: What Is It? How Does It Work?
14. What fees are due upon application, lease signing and move-in?
To prepare financially, it’s important to understand all fees due before and during move-in. Typical upfront fees include:
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee covering application processing, background checks and guarantor verification.
- Administrative Fee: A one-time, non-refundable charge due at lease signing to cover administrative services like billing and auditing.
- Security Deposit: A refundable deposit held to cover any damages beyond normal wear and tear, which is returned at the end of your lease if no major repairs are needed.
Knowing these fees in advance will help you budget more accurately for your move.
15. Is a guarantor or co-signer required?
If you’re a student without full-time employment, a guarantor may be required to secure your lease. A guarantor, often a parent or guardian, agrees to cover rent if you miss a payment. Confirming if a guarantor is necessary will help you prepare and ensure you have someone ready to support your application if needed.
Read Next: What is a Guarantor? Do ASU Students Need One for Off-Campus Housing?
At Rambler Tempe, we’re here to help make your student living experience unforgettable. If you’re ready to sign, be sure to check out our article on how to sign a lease, so you know all the important steps involved in securing your housing. If you’re ready to lease at Rambler or would like to take a tour, reach out to our leasing office! We are happy to help!
